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Acetaminophen and Liver Damage

Acetaminophen and Liver Damage

Acetaminophen, often referred to by its brand name, Tylenol, is a drug
found in many over-the-counter products as well as some prescription
medicines such as Vicodin and Percocet. Acetaminophen is widely used as a
pain reliever and to reduce fever. When taken in doses as recommended by
the directions on its package, acetaminophen is generally regarded as safe.
However, when taking more than the recommended amount, acetaminophen can
cause liver damage including abnormalities in liver function tests, acute
liver failure and even death.

In April, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a final rule that
requires companies who make OTC products that contain acetaminophen to
change their labeling in order to warn consumers about the possibility of
severe liver damage when large doses are taken. More recently, the FDA
voted to lower the maximum daily dose of acetaminophen, which is currently
4 grams, due to concerns over liver damage.

To decrease the risk of developing liver damage, the FDA posted these
recommendations:

• Follow dosing directions and never take more than directed; even a small amount more than directed can cause liver damage.

• Don’t take acetaminophen for more days than directed.

• Don’t take more than one medicine that contains acetaminophen at a time.

To tell if a product contains acetaminophen, check the“drug facts”
section on the bottle or prescription label. The label will contain the
words “acetaminophen” or “APAP.” If you are taking a product
containing acetaminophen, be careful and make sure to read the label and
follow the directions.
For more information on acetaminophen, talk to your pharmacist, doctor, or
nurse or contact the FDA at 1-888-INFO-FDA.

References
“The Food and Drug Administration”